U-Hauls are the vehicle of choice for plenty of movers.

Most people moving on a budget will rent a U-Haul, van or truck to do the job. But even experienced drivers of automobiles need to be aware of the different rules of the road when it comes to navigating a moving truck, both to avoid costly damages and to evade summonses.

The following are a list of tips for amateur truckers and movers.

Take it slow

The controls of a truck are designed so a person of any strength or size can easily turn, accelerate and brake, so it’s easy to gain confidence quickly. But you need to remember you are much longer and taller than any car, so drive slowly, especially through residential neighborhoods or when parking or turning.

Adjust mirrors often

Take the time to adjust each of your mirrors, ideally using a buddy, before you set off. Re-adjust from time to time, too. Watch out for pedestrians and bicyclists in particular, and remember that just because you can’t see someone in your mirrors doesn’t mean the coast is clear.

Leave more time for braking

A loaded truck takes a lot longer to stop than an empty one, so start your braking well before that stop sign or red light. Also, don’t brake and turn at the same time – instead, brake, release, and turn. Practice a few times with an empty truck.

Skip the drive-through when you’re hungry or thirsty

Navigating even a small truck for the first time through a drive-through restaurant or bank is an iffy proposition, and the rental company will be only too glad to charge you for any scratches or dents on sides or even the roof of your vehicle. Park the vehicle and walk to the food or the ATM, especially if you’re in a hurry.

Read and pay attention to “Maximum height” signs on bridges and parking garages before entering

Also, remember, or write down, the height of your truck for quick reference before you go over a bridge or into a garage whose ceiling turns out to be a foot too short and you dent your roof or worse, get stuck.